An independent survey has concluded that new mobile phone masts in Newcastle meet international safety guidelines.

An independent survey has concluded that new mobile phone masts in Newcastle meet international safety guidelines.

The city council commissioned the research after residents in West Denton contacted their MP Doug Henderson.

They were concerned at possible health hazards from the mast - particularly on Denton Park House and Hill Top House.

As a result, a survey was conducted by Dr Andrew Mackie, an expert on mobile phone radiation and possible health risks, who works as a public analyst in Edinburgh. He monitored radiation levels at 80 separate locations, including 19 points at Beach Hill School and a number of flats and houses within the multi-storey buildings.

He was accompanied by at least one local resident, who had complained to Mr Henderson, and the team manager of the environmental and safety unit at Newcastle City Council.

Mr Henderson said: "I have been told that the results show that, save for the roofs of the buildings in close proximity of the antennae, or adjacent to the screen of operating television sets, emissions levels were below the lower reading limit of the instrument used.

"Once I have received the full report from Dr Mackie I will be circulating it to residents.

"The report shows that the emissions as well below international safety standards.

"If the experts have got it wrong there might be problems but Dr Mackie's report says that, according to those standards, the masts are OK.

"Its up the residents to make their owns minds up on the basis of the report."